Warmer weather and ever-lengthening days make spring the perfect time to visit the Montague-Whitehall area. Nature is blooming, and it’s time to dust off those bikes and golf clubs, get out your warm-weather clothes, and come enjoy a well-deserved getaway up north!
Below you’ll find our freshest take on things to do and places to go while you’re in town.
7 Things to Do in the White Lake Area This Spring
Shop the Montague Farmers’ Market
Come peruse the freshest produce and products from area farmers and artisans!
The Montague Farmers’ Market opens for the first time on the second Saturday in May. It then runs every Saturday from 9am – 12:30pm until the end of October. In June, July, and August, the market will also be open on Tuesday evenings from 5pm – 7:30pm.
Grab something good to eat and a few treasures to take home with you — plus say hi to our local growers and artisans!
Walk and Ride the Hart-Montague Bike Trail
Did you know the very first “rail-to-trail” park in the State of Michigan cuts right through our backyard?
Once the pathway of impressive 20th century locomotives, the Hart-Montague Bike Trail is now a 22-mile paved trail that winds through the most beautiful countryside of West Michigan. Start your journey at the southern trailhead, located right here in Montague (or anywhere along its 22 miles), and go at your own pace on bike, rollerblade, or foot.
Bike rentals are available at WaterDog Outfitters in Montague.
Kayak, Canoe, and Boat White River and White Lake
No trip to the White Lake area is complete without “setting sail” on White Lake or White River!
Head out in a boat, canoe, kayak, or standup paddleboard. Vessel rentals are available in town if you don’t plan to bring your own, or consider chartering a boat if you’d like to fish. Getting out on the water is an excellent way to get some fresh air and see the area from a brand-new perspective.
Enjoy Comfortable Outdoor Dining at Local Restaurants
Let’s face it: The cold weather’s been tough for those of us who want to dine out but prefer to eat outdoors.
Now that the weather’s warming up, however, outdoor dining is becoming more enjoyable than ever. Many area restaurants are now offering extended hours and have increased seating capacities, to boot. Both Whitehall and Montague boast a long list of restaurants, bars, delis, and cafes. Take your pick, and let your taste buds be your guide!
Take a Stroll Through Downtown Montague and Whitehall
Discover the local storefronts, galleries, and cafes of downtown Montague and Whitehall. If it’s just shopping you’re in the mood for, both charming and walkable towns offer a large selection of unique clothing, gifts, crafts, furniture, and more — any of which would make the perfect treasures to take home with you.
While you explore, give your feet a rest and grab a coffee or scone (or a glass of wine or beer — hey, it’s vacation!) at one of our local cafes or bars. If you just want to peruse, be sure to stop in to one of the local galleries to see work from our best local artists.
Golf Area Courses
The White Lake area’s well-maintained and scenic golf courses are a great way to enjoy the outdoors and get some exercise as spring turns to summer. Whether you’re a beginner or an avid player, you’ll find a course that’s just your speed:
- Old Channel Trail Golf Course, Montague
- White Lake Golf Club, Whitehall
- Bent Pine Golf Club, Whitehall
- Grand View Golf Course, New Era
- Thoroughbred Golf Club, Rothbury
- Lincoln Golf Club, Muskegon
- Stonegate Golf Club, Twin Lake
Enjoy the Return of Local Outdoor Events
Finally, with the advent of warmer weather and a tentative ease on COVID-19-related restrictions, we’re happy to welcome back some of our favorite outdoor events.
One event we’re especially looking forward to is the 42nd Annual White Lake Area Arts & Crafts Festival. Pending the possibility of COVID-19 restrictions, this two-day event should take place at Goodrich Park in Whitehall on:
Saturday, June 19th 2021 10am – 5pm
Sunday, June 20th 2021 11am – 4pm
The White Lake Area Arts & Crafts Festival will feature the work of more than 70 talented artists. Come check out a wide array of fine arts and crafts, from ceramics and wood furniture to textiles, paintings, jewelry, handmade toys, and more!
The whole family is welcome at the event as it will also feature games and activities for the kids, an eclectic lineup of live musicians, and a variety of food trucks and vendors!